Catalyst Giving Circle Grants

Catalyst Giving Circle Grants

Geographic Scope: Berlin, New Britain, Plainville, and Southington, Connecticut

Overview: The Catalyst Giving Circle is a grassroots philanthropy program where members pool their contributions into a collective fund that is matched/supplemented by the Foundation to create a $20,000 annual grant. Members vote on which local nonprofit organization and program addressing a community-selected issue will receive the grant.

How It Works:
1. Learn Together: Three times per year, Catalyst members meet to explore a community issue selected by the group and hear from local nonprofits and experts working on the front lines
2. Give with Purpose: Members review funding proposals from local nonprofits addressing that issue and vote to decide which program(s) to support
3. Build Real Impact: Since 2009, Catalyst has awarded over $247,500 in grants to local programs

Membership Options:

Focus Areas: Community-selected issues (e.g., "Workforce of the Future" in 2017)

Impact: Since 2009, awarded more than $247,500 in grants to local programs addressing important community needs

Contact Information:

Background: Established in 1941, the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain manages grants and charitable assets to improve quality of life in the service area.